What should Muslim Men Wear - Traditional Clothing Guide

Published on March 06, 2020

Many people are aware of what an Islamic woman should wear and distinctive clothing. However, only a few people know that Muslim men should also follow a modest dress code. While the "traditional attire" varies from country to country, the modesty as per the Islamic teachings is always followed by all.

What do Islamic teachings say?

Modesty is placed at a pedestal for both men and women's attire. The clothing must not only be loose-fitting and long but should also cover the body. As per the Quran, men should "lower their gaze and protect their modesty; that will pave the way for greater purity for them" (4:30).

Also, as per the Quran 33:35, Muslim men and women who are patient and constant, who are humble and give in charity, men and women who fast, men and women who guard their chastity and engage in Allah's praise - the God forgives their sins and offers great reward.

Also Read: Muslim Clothing Requirements-Islamic Men and Women Attire

In this guide, we will talk about different attires and types of Islamic men along with their respective descriptions.

Thobe

Also known as Thawb, Thobe is a long robe worn by Muslim men. Common in Arabic countries, the top of the Thobe is custom-made like a shirt, ends at the ankles and is loose. It is usually made in the colour white but is also available in other colours, especially in winter. As per the region, thobe is called dishdasha in Kuwait and Kandourah in the UAE region.

Ghutra and Egal

The Ghutra is a rectangular or square headscarf that is worn by men along with a rope band (in black colour) to secure it in place. The Ghutra (headscarf) comes in different patterns - white, checkered in red/white and black/white. In some regions, this headscarf is called a shemagh or kuffiyeh. The egal (i.e. the rope band) is optional.

Men take great care to iron and starch their headscarves to maintain its colour and straight shape.

Bisht

The Bisht is a cloak that is worn over the thobe. You will usually notice it on high-level government or religious leaders who wear it. It is also worn on special occasions such as weddings.

Serwal

Serwal is a white cotton pant that comes with an elastic waist, drawstring or even both. It is also known as mikasser. This white cotton pant is worn underneath the thobe or men's gowns along with a white cotton undershirt.

Salwar Kameez

Popular in India, both men and women wear Salwar Kameez available in matching suits. Salwar denotes the pants while Kameez denotes the tunic part of the outfit.

Izar

Popular in India, especially Kerala, it is also known as Lungi. It is a wide patterned cotton cloth that is wrapped around the waist and tucked in place securely, just like a sarong. It is also common in other countries such as Yemen, the UAE, Oman, and South Asia.

Turban

Known by various names worldwide, the turban is a 10-plus feet long rectangular piece of cloth that is wrapped around the head. It is even worn over a skullcap. It is arranged in such a way depicting each regions and culture. Turban is traditional in Islamic culture and many Muslim men in North Africa, India, Afghanistan, Iran and other region still wear turban in their daily lives.